HK-produced AI chatbot 'HKChat' to be launched this year

The locally produced chatbot service “HKChat” developed by the Hong Kong Generative AI Research and Development Center based on its large language model is expected to be launched this year, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry Sun Dong said.

In response to a question regarding large language models at the Legislative Council meeting on Wednesday, Sun said the center will test the cybersecurity and stability of related systems before the chatbot’s official launch, including inviting third-party experts for audits.

The HKGAI, set up in 2023, is currently conducting research and development (R&D) on a series of open-source foundation models, including a local large language model (LLM) “HKGAI V1” and a generative AI document processing copilot application “HKPilot.”

Sun indicated the center has an estimated R&D and operating expenditure of around HK$235 million, noting that the authority does not keep a breakdown of costs for individual models or applications.

He stated that “HKGAI V1” was updated in February based on DeepSeek technology and is being integrated into “HKPilot” to enhance document processing capabilities, with pilot use by government staff to gather user feedback.

Sun noted that the Digital Policy Office will coordinate with all bureaux and departments to gradually increase government personnel participation in the pilot program. 

“In the longer term, the application will help reduce the manpower required for government personnel to handle general document processing tasks, allowing manpower to be deployed to other areas of need,” he said.

Sun reiterated that HKGAI is “making every effort” to optimize its LLM and applications, and aims to launch the “HKChat” this year.

He added that the HK-developed LLM has the potential to support practical applications in fields such as law and environmental protection, and the center will establish a strategy and timetable for releasing the LLM and related applications for community use.

(Cheng Wong)